King Kong

We all know enough about this movie so I don't feel that I have to go through the traditional "This is what it's about" blah blah blah.

This movie is excellent. Naomi Watts deserves an Academy Award nomination. Director Peter Jackson once again shows that not only is he amazing when it comes to special effects, he is wonderful with the actors. King Kong and Ann Darrow (Watts) have a beautiful, touching connection never before seen in either the 1933 or the 1976 versions. Kong is an old, lonely gorilla, desperate for some kind of interaction. The tragedy that follows is heartbreaking.

Kong is also one bad ass ape. Kong takes on three (yes, three) Tyrannosaurus Rexes (Rexi?) all at once. What a fight!

Be aware that this movie is over three hours long. Truthfully, a good 30-40 minutes could have been edited off. Just a shade too long. The first hour is devoted entirely to characterization and setup. Kong is nowhere to be seen. Once the second hour hits, however, and the crew lands on Skull Island - hold on to your seats! But any quibble I may have about the length is secondary to the spectacle that is "King Kong."

Jackson gives us such eye candy: a Brontosaurus stampede; giant spiders and centipedes; giant flying bat-like things; the list goes on.

All in all, a very good movie. Well acted, well directed, and very enjoyable, even if it is too long.